sportsjabber.net

Zach pitched a complete game, Four hitter, in the Pirates 7-0 win over the Houston Astros. The home opener for the Bucs was played with the Pirates wearing caps dedicated to the Police officers that lost their lives a week and a half ago in Pittsburgh. The home opener for the Bucs was played with the Pirates wearing caps dedicated to the Police officers that lost their lives a week and a half ago in Pittsburgh. Ryan Doumit and Adam LaRoche each homered, and Freddie Sanchez had three more hits, all doubles in the Pirates win.

Paul Maholm pitched 6 2/3 innings, giving up 2 runs (one earned) and 7 hits. he Struck out one and walked one. Paulo also added two Walks and a base hit from the Dish. Jack Wilson had the big hit of the day, with a bases loaded double in the top of the 9th inning. Jason Motte threw an 0-2, 2 out fastball that reached 96 mph, and Jack smoked it into the gap for the double.

At this point, I want to take a look at the 25 man roster. Position by Position break down and what I expect from each of them. So lets roll!

Jessie Chavez gets the final roster spot, over Evan Meek. Meek had pitched pretty well during the spring, but he had some unfortunate events that have led him to be returned to the minors. Chavez, and his 11.45 ERA, makes the team. Meek, who after a March 20 appearance, missed a week with a tired shoulder. And just as he was cleared to come back, the righty was hit with the stomach flu and then with bronchitis. There is no question that Meek out pitched Chavez in the spring. Meek will get his time in AAA, and very well could find himself right back with the Bucs.

The Pirates have put things in motion for a League championship. There it is, I said it…well I blogged it anyway. Can the Bucco’s win the Grapefruit League? What would it all mean? Well it would be a moral victory, as we all know the Bucs haven’t won anything since…err..Its been a long time.

Why am I calling Mark, you may ask? I’m calling because hes exactly the low risk/ high reward pick up the Pirates need. Yes, he’s only pitched in 2 games in the past three seasons. He’s also the same guy that had 97 wins in the previous 6. He’s had shoulder trouble, and has been cut and stuffed. The Cardinal fans have had enough, and they say he’s done. But this Pirate fan thinks he can be that crafty lefty with the veteran leadership, who just happens to know how to win. The Pirates really need that kind of influence on the roster.

Pedro Alverez, hes the next big thing. When hes in the batters box and hes hitting the ball, you know it, without ever setting your eyes on him. Hes got that kind of pop in his bat, you know by sound. Alverez, The Pirates first round draft pick, is going to be a special player. But will he be a special player for the Bucco’s?